Scheib Sets the Bar
With five racers remaining, Austria’s Julia Scheib, known for her remarkable second runs, held the lead. Switzerland’s Lara Gut-Behrami, the next to challenge, couldn’t find the speed she needed and crossed the finish in third place, with four racers still to ski. Using the fastest second run of the day, Scheib finished fourth overall and climbed eight positions during the afternoon.
Robinson Powers into the Lead
New Zealand’s Alice Robinson, renowned for her power and aggression, attacked the course intensely. Her dynamic run propelled her into the lead, 0.34 seconds ahead of Scheib, with three skiers left to challenge.
“I knew I could have done better in the first run,” said Robinson, reflecting on her performance. “I skied solidly but was just too conservative and didn’t fully capitalize on the course set by my coach. In the second run, I wanted to change that mindset. I decided to attack, go for it, and not overthink anything. I think I found a good balance between pushing hard and being smart with my tactics.” – Alice Robinson.
Stjernesund Falls Short
Norway’s Thea Louise Stjernesund, the third-fastest skier from the first run, struggled to match Robinson’s pace. She crossed the line into fifth place, unable to challenge the leaders, with two racers remaining.
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Colturi’s Historic Podium
Eighteen-year-old Lara Colturi of Albania delivered a poised and confident run. Crossing the finish with a 0.10-second lead over Robinson, Colturi secured her first-ever Giant Slalom podium, with only one skier left to challenge.
“It just feels amazing,” said Lara Colturi, celebrating her second World Cup podium and her first in Giant Slalom—the first-ever GS podium for Albania. “I was feeling really confident in myself in the last week, and finally I’ve made two really good runs.”
Reflecting on the pressure of the high-stakes second run, she added, “I was just thinking about having fun like always and doing my best.” – Lara Colturi
Hector Seals the Victory and Takes GS Season Lead
Sweden’s Olympic champion Sara Hector, the final skier, carried a commanding first-run lead into the second. Skiing with the efficiency of a true veteran, Hector used her power strategically, applying it where it mattered most. She crossed the finish 1.42 seconds ahead of Colturi, securing her second victory of the season. With Federica Brignone, the discipline leader entering this race, failing to complete her first run, Hector’s stellar performance propelled her to the top of the GS season standings.
“I can’t believe this could happen—my second victory here, my second victory this season. It’s incredible! I’m super happy and so grateful for my team. They’ve been amazing, pushing me and supporting me every step of the way. That’s what makes this all possible,” said Hector.
A Blend of Experience and Youth on the Podium
The final podium showcased a mix of veteran excellence and rising stars: Hector (32), Colturi (18), and Robinson (23). Hector celebrated her second win of the season, Colturi made history with her first GS podium, and Robinson claimed her third podium of the year, further solidifying her reputation as one of the sport’s brightest talents.
Hensien Delivers Consistency in the Second Run
Stifel U.S. Ski Team’s Katie Hensien, who finished 27th in the first run, was the fourth skier to tackle the second. Hensien began the season with a career-best fourth-place finish in Sölden, Austria. While she hasn’t matched that result, her performances have remained consistent.
In the second run, Hensien couldn’t ski fast enough to take the early lead but crossed the finish in second place temporarily. Her effort secured points in her fourth consecutive GS race, underlining her reliability on the circuit.
Brunner Leads After First Ten Racers
After the first ten skiers completed their second runs, Austria’s Stephanie Brunner led the standings with a strong performance. Norway’s Madeleine Sylvester-Davik, who started with bib 61, sat in second, while Italy’s Asja Zenere was in third. Notably, all ten racers successfully completed their runs, maintaining a steady rhythm for the competition.
Nyberg Holds the Lead at Midway Point
By the halfway mark of the second run, Sweden’s Lisa Nyberg, daughter of Giant Slalom legend Fredrik Nyberg, remained in the lead after her early run. Austria’s Ricarda Haaser, who skied after Nyberg, slotted into second place, with her teammate Brunner holding third. The intensity grew as the top 15 skiers prepared to take on the challenging course.
Scheib Takes the Lead with Ten Racers Remaining
With just ten skiers left to compete, Austria’s Scheib emerged as the second-run sensation, taking the lead with a 0.21-second advantage over Italy’s Sofia Goggia. Switzerland’s Camille Rast followed in third, 0.81 seconds behind Scheib. The competition tightened as the fastest racers from the first run prepared to challenge the leaderboard.
Hurt and O’Brien Deliver Strong Second Runs
The 22nd skier to compete, AJ Hurt of the Stifel U.S. Ski Team, skied a strong second run in only her second GS of the season. Hurt crossed the finish in fourth place, 0.87 seconds behind Scheib, marking her best result of the season and showcasing her improving form.
“Both runs felt solid, and I finally felt more like myself skiing again. I found the rhythm I’ve been looking for, and that was really exciting. It feels so good to be back in the mix and not just the injured athlete trying to come back. I’m happy with this result, and I’m hopeful it’s a sign of more good things to come.” – AJ Hurt
The last U.S. skier to compete was Nina O’Brien. Starting with a 0.46-second advantage over Scheib, O’Brien couldn’t maintain her lead and finished just behind Hurt. Despite solid efforts, neither skier was able to break into the podium positions.
“It felt like chaos out there. I was really trying to push and go for it, but it got a little sloppy. There were three moments where I felt like I was about to ski out, and by the third one, I had to tell myself, ‘Okay, pull it together for the bottom.’ I’m not totally satisfied with my second run, but overall, there were some good moments and the right attitude. I’m happy for AJ and excited to build from here.” – Nina O’Brien
Hurt finished 10th, O’Brien 11th, and Hensien 27th. Unfortunately, all three were unable to move up the leaderboard during the afternoon.
A Historic Moment for Argentina
In a surprising turn of events, Argentina’s Francesca Baruzzi Farriol shocked the field by finishing 30th, scoring her first career World Cup points. Her achievement added an exciting note to an already dramatic race.
Race Results
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Breakdown of the Top Three Performers and North Americans
About the Author: Peter Lange
